Vivien Leigh, born Vivian Mary Hartley on November 5, 1913, in Darjeeling, British India, was a British actress who captivated audiences with her beauty and talent. Her passing on July 8, 1967, marked the end of an era, but her performances, particularly as Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind" and Blanche DuBois in "A Streetcar Named Desire," remain timeless.

Leigh's early life was peripatetic, as her family frequently moved due to her father's work. Eventually settling in England, she was drawn to acting from a young age. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including a battle with bipolar disorder, Leigh's determination saw her rise through the ranks of British theater and eventually onto the silver screen.

Her role as Scarlett O'Hara catapulted her to international stardom. The search for Scarlett was a media circus, and Leigh, then a relatively unknown British actress, stunned the world by landing the role. Her portrayal earned her an Academy Award and solidified her place in cinematic history. She won a second Oscar for her role in "A Streetcar Named Desire," confirming her status as one of the great actresses of her time.

In addition to her film work, Leigh had a distinguished stage career, often appearing opposite her then-husband, Laurence Olivier. Their collaborations were the stuff of legend, both on and off the stage. However, her life was not without its struggles. Leigh battled mental health issues and tuberculosis, which ultimately led to her premature death.

Leigh was known for her impeccable style, becoming a fashion icon in addition to her acting accolades. She was also an avid reader and had a keen interest in art, often visiting galleries and museums in her free time. Her legacy is not just that of an actress but of a complex, multi-faceted woman who left an indelible mark on the worlds of film and theater.

An interesting fact about Vivien Leigh is that she changed the spelling of her first name to make it more symmetrical, believing it would be luckier. Another lesser-known aspect of her life was her avid collection of fine art and antiques, which was auctioned off after her death. She also had a deep love for cats and owned several throughout her life.

Vivien Leigh's contributions to film and theater are immeasurable. She remains an enduring symbol of grace, beauty, and complexity, her work immortalized through her unforgettable performances.